In this episode Mark talks about the 2019 American psychological thriller film "Joker" - directed, produced and co-written by Todd Philips - which is based upon the DC Comics character best known as the archenemy of the superhero Batman. Set in 1981, "Joker" follows the story of Arthur Fleck, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who is a failed stand-up comedian whose descent into insanity and nihilism inspires a violent counter-culture revolution against the wealthy in Gotham City. The film also stars Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, and Marc Maron, as well as a plethora of other recognisable actors in supporting roles, within a story that was apparently inspired by two Martin Scorsese films - "Taxi Driver" and "The King of Comedy" - and serves as an alternative origin story for the Joker character. Mark talks about the premise of the film, as well as the exceptional acting talent of the actors portraying the characters - and Mark talks about the character of the Joker and which depiction of the character by all the actors to have played the role over the years is his personal favourite.
